Why we developed the Acknowledgement
The Lived and Living Experience Acknowledgement Statement has been developed for organisations, leaders, and professionals in the Alcohol and Other Drugs sector. This statement recognises the authority, expertise, and contribution of people with lived and living experience (LLE). Available in long and short formats, the statement is intended to operate in a similar way to an Acknowledgement of Country.
Who is it for?
The primary purpose is for sector workers to make these acknowledgements—not for people with lived and living experience to acknowledge themselves. While it is entirely appropriate for peer workers to use these resources in peer group contexts if they choose, the intention is to shift responsibility away from people with LLE and onto other professionals. This ensures the Acknowledgment does not become another expectation or burden placed on those with lived and living experience.
When to use it
Acknowledgements of LLE can and should be embedded across a wide range of settings at the beginning of the event to establish a respectful and inclusive tone. For example, you might use an acknowledgement at:
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Team or staff meetings
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Group sessions or peer gatherings
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Conferences, forums, or community engagement activities
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Media or public statements
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Organisational milestone events (e.g. AGMs, launches, anniversaries)
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Training sessions or workshops
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Partnership events and collaborations
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Webinars
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Board or committee meetings
This list is not exhaustive—the opportunities are endless.
Choosing the right format
In addition to the video, you can download the Acknowledgement in written form, with both long and short versions available. Choosing different formats across contexts helps acknowledgements feel authentic, considered, and relevant.
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Long statement: more impactful in formal or significant events such as conferences, AGMs, or public forums.
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Short statement: best suited to meetings and routine gatherings where time is limited.
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Video version: highly engaging for community-facing settings, training, or events where variety and accessibility matter.
Share your experience
We’d love to hear how you use this resource in your work to embed, elevate and empower LLE leadership. Reach out to communication@atdc.org.au and share your experience.
Our thanks to Hype Productions for their incredible work on this video.
